One of the greatest joys in life is becoming a parent. There is so much excitement when we think of the new baby arriving, and so much planning to do to make sure we are ready. Having all the essential baby products for newborns can be quite a chore, but this list of what you need for a baby should help with your shopping and erase a lot of stress. Keep in mind that many parents have differing opinions on some baby items and may find that they aren't interested or don't think certain items need to make the newborn baby shopping checklist. That's perfectly fine. Just browse this infant shopping list and make sure you've purchased everything you want for your newborn before baby makes his or her first appearance! Some of the items on this newborn checklist are included to give mom and dad a little bit of a break too. Having a newborn at home is very stressful, so it's important to take advantage of all those little things that can help make things go a little more smooth.
Feeding
The most important part of having a new baby is deciding whether you will breastfeed or use formula. Either way, there is a long list of necessary items for a newborn baby that you need to have on hand when you arrive home with your new bundle of joy to ensure he or she gets the nutrition and nourishment needed. Following is our shopping list for new baby and mom, because we need to keep both in mind when it comes to feeding.For Breastfeeding New Moms:
- Plenty of burp cloths for dribbles and spit-up
- Breast pump for when you aren't able to nurse
- Bibs to keep baby's clothing dry and clean
- Storage containers or bags for pumped breast milk
- Nursing bras for convenience and comfort
- Nursing pads to prevent messy and embarrassing leaks
- Nursing pillow to support baby while eating
- Lotion or cream for sore nipples
- Several bottles and nipples for pumped milk when unable to nurse
For Formula Feeding Your Baby:
- Several bibs to keep baby clothes dry and clean
- Burp cloths for dribbles and spit-up
- Bottle and nipple brush for cleaning
- Formula - Be sure to check expiration dates and don't buy too far in advance
- Thermal bottle carrier to keep formula warm on the go
- About 10 bottles and nipples, in both 4-ounce and 8-ounce sizes
- Bottle liners - some bottles use disposable liners for easier cleaning
- Bottle warmer if desired
- Bottle sterilizer to ensure bottles are clean and safe
- Dishwasher baskets for small bottle pieces and nipples
- Bottle drying rack for hand cleaning
- Dry formula dispenser - makes measuring more precise and less messy
When Baby Starts on Solid Foods:
- High chair that adjusts and reclines
- Small bowls, plates and silverware
- Sippy cups
- Food mat that sticks to the table or high chair surface - keeps baby from picking up dishes and spilling her meal
- Mess mat for the floor under baby - makes after-meal cleanup a breeze
Diapering:
Another important category on the newborn necessities list is diapering. Diapers are going to be essential for newborns with a couple of things to consider. For starters, you'll need to decide whether you will use cloth or disposable diapers. There are pros and cons to both and it all comes down to what you are most comfortable with.For Cloth Diapering:
Cloth diapers can save you a lot of money over the time you'll spend using them. They simply require washing between use and the baby will fit in them for quite some time without needing a new size. The downside is that they do require you to either buy many to start with or frequent laundering.If Cloth Diapers are Being Used:
- Several dozen reusable cloth diapers - remember that these will be soiled several times per day so you will need a few days worth to avoid doing laundry every day
- About 8 waterproof diaper covers - you won't need as many covers as you do diapers as these can be quickly washed and dried between uses
- Changing pad with waterproof covers
- Diaper cream or ointment for red and sore bottoms
- Disposable baby wipes or washcloths
- Velcro, snaps or safety pins for securing the diaper on baby
If Using Disposable Diapers:
Disposable diapers offer ease and convenience, since you simply toss them out when soiled. One thing to keep in mind when buying disposable diapers is to always have plenty on hand but don't overdo it. Your baby will grow fast and you don't want to have a bunch of extra that he or she can no longer fit into. If this does happen, it's pretty easy to get the excess diapers off your hands. Take to social media and let your friends know you have extra to get rid of or check out non-profits in your area to donate them to.What You'll Need if Using Disposable Diapers:
- A couple boxes of newborn size diapers
- Disposable wipes - don't worry about having too many as you'll be using these for years to come
- Washcloths instead of baby wipes if desired
- Changing pad and waterproof covers
- Diaper cream or ointment for sore bottoms
- Diaper bag for going out, remember it needs to big enough for all of the baby items you'll need when leaving the house
- Diaper stacker - this offers convenience at changing time
- Wipe warmer to keep cold surprise off baby's bum
Keeping Your Baby Clothed
Every baby needs clothes! This is one of the most fun categories to buy from with all the cute and sweet tiny clothes to choose from. Be sure to take into account the season, where baby will be spending most of his or her time and how often you will launder clothing. Be sure not to buy too much of one size as babies grow super quick and will outgrow clothes in no time. Head over and check out Free Birdees to tackle your newborn baby clothes essentials shopping list. We offer everything from pajama sets to keep baby warm and cozy to sweet dresses whimsical rompers for outings with the new baby.What You'll Need to Dress Your Baby:
- 8-10 undershirts or onesies with a snap crotch for easy changing diapers - a mix of short and long sleeves if the baby is going to need warmer clothing at times 4-8 shirts
- 4-8 pants - footies are great to avoid cold feet and the pain and hassle of keeping socks on an active baby
- 4-8 sleepers or baby pajamas - zippers are great on these due to ease of changing and diapering since too many snaps can be quite the hassle, especially in the middle of the night
- A few pairs of socks or booties for when footie pants or sleepers aren't being worn - no need for shoes until baby starts to walk
- A few hats for keeping baby's head warm and covered when outdoors
- A few rompers or dressy outfits if you think there will be an occasion for them
- Mittens to keep baby from scratching her own face
- A couple of cardigans or jackets for outings
- Bunting bag or fleece suit for winter babies
- Lightweight blankets for stroller, car seat and quick trips outside
- Receiving blankets for warmth and swaddling
- Gentle laundry detergent for baby clothes and blankets
- Sun hat for summer babies - keeps baby's delicate skin protected
Remember that baby will grow, so it's not a bad idea to get a few items in bigger sizes to be prepared. Just be careful with a whole new wardrobe until you know when baby is ready to move up in size, keeping in tune with the seasons.
See Also: Softest Children Pajamas
Bathing
Bath time can be a sweet experience or a nightmare depending on how your baby likes the water. Sometimes a squirming or even wailing baby can make it a bit trickier. Be sure to include things on your baby shopping list that will make bath time a little easier for mom and dad and more pleasant for your newborn. Also, remember to never leave your little one unattended in or near water to avoid a serious accident. A newborn baby cannot lift his head if he finds himself submerged under water. Gather all the supplies you need before starting the bath to ensure safety and comfort.Things You Need for Bathtime:
- Plastic baby bathtub or mesh seat that is adjustable for aging wth a sitting and laying position - or just use a large dishpan in the sink when baby is still tiny
- 12 washcloths specially designated for bath time - not the ones you'll use for diaper changes
- Gentle baby shampoo and body wash
- Soft-bristled hairbrush
- Soft hooded baby bath towels for drying and warmth after coming out of the warm water
- Baby lotion to keep skin smooth and moisturized
- Padded kneeler to keep mom and dads knees free from pain
- Bathtub mat for slippery and squirmy babes
- Bath chair and toys for older months
- Mesh bag for storing bath toys
- Faucet guard
- Large cup for pouring water/rinsing
Outfitting Your Nursery
Another big portion of your baby checklist is all the things you'll need to outfit her nursery. Keep comfort and security in mind as you shop for your newborn essentials. You'll want the baby's nursery to be a calm and quiet place while ensuring you can move around easily and have everything you need. Remember when buying any baby gear to make sure it meets standards and regulations for safety. When searching for a crib and mattress, be sure you buy new to avoid having a crib that has been recalled or has safety issues.Newborn Baby Furniture Checklist and Nursery Items:
- Crib - purchase new for safety (See our Ultimate Guide for Choosing Crib Sheets)
- Firm mattress that fits snugly in the crib - less than 2 fingers should fit between the mattress and the crib to avoid baby getting stuck
- A couple of waterproof mattress covers to avoid stains and smells on the mattress
- A few fitted children crib sheets
- Light blankets that fit the crib
- Sleep sack to keep baby warm and cozy during sleep
- Cradle or bassinet - this can be kept in other rooms of the home when the baby isn't sleeping in the crib
- Rocking chair or glider for feeding and soothing little one to sleep
- Baby monitor system to keep an eye on the baby from other rooms
- Changing table
- Diaper pail
- Dresser
- Co-sleeper and sheets if you intend to co-sleep with your little one
Health & Safety Essentials
Next on our baby care items list is the health and safety essentials. Keeping your baby healthy and safe is a top priority for parents. The items in this section of the infant shopping list are all excellent to have on hand and are often overlooked when preparing for your new baby.Things to Keep on Hand:
- Nail clippers for little baby fingers
- Baby thermometer for best accuracy
- Petroleum jelly and sterile gauze for circumcision care
- First aid kit
- Cradle cap brush
- Bulb syringe for mucus and little noses
- Pain & fever medication
- Anti-gas medication
- Teething ointment for sore gums
Baby Gear Must-Haves
Next on the baby gear checklist is all the things you need for transporting baby and keeping him content and happy. These are things that are often a bit more expensive and sometimes optional depending on your situation. One thing to remember again is that it is always best to buy most of these items new to avoid purchasing something that has been damaged or recalled. For example, a secondhand car seat may have been involved in an accident which means it is not safe for use again.Your Newborn Gear Checklist:
- Car seat - be sure it is approved and meets all regulations
- Stroller with adjustable back for newborns to lay down
- Baby carrier or sling to keep your hands free and keep baby close
- Baby swing or bouncer chair to soothe your baby
- Playmat to entertain your little one and allow her to stretch out
- Playpen to keep baby contained in different areas of the home and even outside
Baby-Proofing Your Home
Some parents forget about this step when preparing for baby. It's hard to imagine a tiny newborn getting into anything so we overlook these necessities when planning out our baby care items list. Once baby begins to move around more, and especially when he becomes mobile on his own, we need to make sure the home is safe. A little one moves a lot quicker than we think sometimes and can be off to another room in the blink of an eye! For the safety of your baby and the sanity of new parents, the items on this infant shopping list will allow you to relax just a little more knowing that your baby cannot get into things that may be risky to his or her health and safety.Baby-proofing Essentials:
- Baby gates, especially for the top and bottom of every set of stairs
- Cabinet latches to keep baby out of chemicals and other dangerous items
- Drawer latches - especially great for drawers that can be pulled all the way out to prevent baby from dropping it on himself, also for drawers with potentially dangerous items
- Outlet covers to keep little fingers and toys out of outlets
- Fireplace bumper
- Furniture anchors, especially for dressers and televisions
- Toilet lock so your curious little one isn't tempted to splash
- Corner guard for low tables and sharp turns
All the Other Things That Make Life Easier
After all the other things you've bought on this baby checklist, we have a few more things that just make life with a newborn a little easier. Most of the following items are optional but will go a long way to keeping baby safe and happy while keeping mom and dad sane.Newborn Essentials:
- A few pacifiers
- Pacifier clips to keep them from getting lost and dropped on dirty floors
- Cool mist humidifier
- White noise machine to help baby sleep better
- Small plastic hangers for hanging items in the closet
- Sunshade for car windows to shield baby's delicate skin and eyes
- Rattles and other toys to entertain baby
- Teething toys to soothe fussy babies as teeth come in
- Mobile for the crib
- Night light helps prevent total darkness
- Wet bag for keeping soiled and wet items separate from other things in the diaper bag
- Back seat mirror to keep eyes on the little one as you are driving
- Pee-pee teepee for the little boys
- Hamper for dirty clothes, kept separate from rest of the household
- Cotton swabs and cotton balls
- Rain cover for stroller
- Crib mirror for baby to see herself